Reports: LeBron James opts out of contract with Miami Heat

LeBron James has opted out of his contract with the Miami Heat, according to two media reports.

ESPN first reported Tuesday morning that James' agent, Rich Paul, told the Heat that his client would use his early contract termination option to become a free agent. USA Today also reported James' opting out.

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James had two more years left on his contact with the Heat and had until June 30 to inform the team if he was going to opt out of his deal.

The NBA free agency period begins on July 1. That means all the teams in the NBA can now court James to "bring his talents" to their cities. He could also choose to remain with the Heat with a new contract.

There was no immediate word on what two of James' high-profile Miami teammates -- Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade -- think about LeBron's move and whether they will follow with contact opt-outs of their own.

With the Heat, James went to four consecutive NBA Finals, winning two. The Heat lost this year's NBA Finals in five games to the San Antonio Spurs.